Guyana

Travel guide

Гаяна

Guyana, known for its lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, offers a unique blend of cultures and stunning natural landscapes. Explore its vibrant cities and serene countryside.

Bill Cameron · CC BY-SA 3.0
  • Best MonthsSeptember to November, February to April
  • AirportsCheddi Jagan International Airport (PBM), Eugene
  • TransitLimited public transport; domestic flights avail
  • Power120V, Type A and B plugs
  • Tipping10-15% in restaurants
  • LanguageEnglish (official), various indigenous languages

01

When to go

The best time to visit Guyana is during the dry season from September to November and February to April.

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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
dry

Dry Season

The dry season offers pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

wet

Wet Season

The wet season brings heavy rains, affecting travel plans.

transitional

Transitional Season

The transitional season sees fluctuating weather, a mix of both dry and wet.

02

Where to stay

Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.

01
Cultural Hub

Georgetown

The capital city with colonial architecture and vibrant markets.

Busy city life with limited nature.

02
Adventure Base

Lethem

A gateway to the Rupununi savannah and indigenous culture.

Remote, but rich in natural beauty.

03
Outdoor Activities

Bartica

A riverside town known for gold mining and outdoor activities.

Less urban amenities.

04
Eco-Tourism

Annai

A small village offering eco-tourism and indigenous experiences.

Limited facilities but rich in culture.

05
Nature Retreat

Mabaruma

A remote town near the border with Venezuela, surrounded by nature.

Isolated but tranquil.

06
Natural Wonder

Kaieteur National Park

Home to the famous Kaieteur Falls, a must-visit natural wonder.

Access is limited and requires planning.

07
Nature and Culture

Linden

An industrial town with access to nearby waterfalls and nature.

Less touristy, more local experience.

08
Wildlife Spotting

Rupununi

A vast region known for its wildlife and indigenous communities.

Requires travel to reach remote areas.

03

What to eat

Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.

Pepperpot

A traditional Guyanese dish made with meat and spices, often found during holidays.

→ Try it at local family gatherings.

Metemgee

A hearty dish made with cassava, plantains, and coconut milk, popular in rural areas.

→ Look for it at local markets.

Cook-up Rice

A one-pot meal with rice, beans, and meat, commonly served at gatherings.

→ Best enjoyed at community events.

Baked Fish

Freshly caught fish seasoned and baked, often served with rice and salad.

→ Visit coastal towns for the freshest options.

Dhal Puri

A flatbread stuffed with seasoned split peas, typically served with curry.

→ Street vendors often have the best versions.

Souse

A pickled dish made with meat, usually served cold, popular in coastal areas.

→ Great for a refreshing snack.

Black Cake

A rich fruit cake traditionally made for special occasions.

→ Look for it during the holiday season.

04

What to see

An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.

01

Kaieteur Falls

One of the world's largest single-drop waterfalls, located in Kaieteur National Park.

Natural Wonder
02

Iwokrama Rainforest

A vast rainforest reserve known for its biodiversity and eco-tourism opportunities.

Biodiversity
03

Shell Beach

A remote beach known for its nesting turtles and pristine environment.

Wildlife Spotting
04

St. George's Cathedral

One of the tallest wooden churches in the world, located in Georgetown.

Architectural Marvel
05

The Botanical Gardens

A beautiful garden in Georgetown showcasing local flora.

Relaxation Spot
06

Fort Zeelandia

A historic fort that offers insights into Guyana's colonial past.

Historical Site
07

The Essequibo River

The largest river in Guyana, perfect for boat tours and fishing.

Scenic Adventure
08

The Berbice Bridge

A bridge connecting the East and West Berbice regions, offering stunning views.

Engineering Marvel
09

The Rupununi Savanna

A vast savanna known for its wildlife and indigenous cultures.

Cultural Experience
10

The Demerara Harbour Bridge

A floating bridge that connects the capital to the West Bank.

Unique Structure
11

Mount Roraima

A flat-topped mountain that is a popular hiking destination.

Adventure Hiking
12

The Guyana National Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Guyana.

Cultural Insight
13

The Cuyuni River

Known for its gold mining and scenic beauty, ideal for exploration.

Scenic Exploration
14

The Kanuku Mountains

A mountain range rich in biodiversity and indigenous heritage.

Nature and Culture
15

The Orinduik Falls

A series of waterfalls located near the Brazil border, perfect for swimming.

Natural Beauty

05

Getting around

Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.

International Arrivals

Most international flights arrive at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (PBM) and Eugene F. Correira International Airport (OGL).

PBMCheddi Jagan International Airport
OGLEugene F. Correira International Airport

Domestic Travel

Domestic flights connect major cities and remote areas, while boats are common for river travel.

Road Conditions

Roads can be challenging outside urban areas; 4x4 vehicles are recommended.

Public Transport

Limited public transport options exist, primarily minibuses and taxis.

06

Practical notes

Plugs

Guyana uses Type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 120V.

Cash

Local currency is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Tipping

Tipping is customary, generally around 10-15% in restaurants.

Language

The official language is English, with various indigenous languages spoken.

Data

A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.

Trip Duration

A stay of at least one week is recommended to explore major attractions.

Гаяна eSIM

Maps, ferries and tickets are easier with data as soon as you land.

See eSIM plans
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